unique question

[firefox29]

Hi fellas:

I am currently in medic school (about 1 month in) and I am also in the running for a FF position in a department in another state. I have made it to the last couple of stages and I have to take the polygraph soon. I will then have to go to the oral board if I pass the polygraph.

If I do get hired by this department, I will stop going to my medic class (drop out) and move away to this state (about 9 hours away) and start a new life. I will hopefully start medic school down there eventually, but it is not a requirement to get hired.

My question is, if I make it to the oral board, do I mention that I will "drop out" of medic school to get hired onto their department? Or do I not even mention it at all? On one hand I think that they would like the idea that I started medic school, on the other hand I dont know what negatives they will take from me dropping out.

I am looking for some advice

stay safe

[Firemedic515]

Don't be affraid to let them know the situation. If anything, it will show your dedication to earning the position.

[CaptBob]

My question is, if I make it to the oral board, do I mention that I will "drop out" of medic school to get hired onto their department? Or do I not even mention it at all?

Don't mention it.

Did you go to medic school to become a firefighter. Then, let the cards fall where they will. Some departents will hire you right away even though you are still in medic school. Others will put you on their list and wait until you get certified to hire you.

Some medic schools will hold a spot until you get on shift to finish their program.

Understand there is one thing tougher than becoming a new medic. That is becoming a new medic an a new firefighter at the same time. You will be tested. On your first calls they will give you the patient to see how long you can tread water. If they start taking the patient away from you it would not play well for you as a rookie.

[jamesct]

I'm doing the same thing - medic school to get into the dept. as a paramedic. It's supposedly the fastest way to get in. And, unlike some I've read about, I really do like the thought of interacting with the public more and helping make a difference vs. waiting around for the next fire (which would be good too to use the FF skills I'll hopefully acquire soon!). I'd rather be busy than bored!!

However, CaptBob...are you not convinced that doing both (new FF and new Medic) is a good approach?? I know there is a desperate need for medics so...why not fill the need in a dept. that does not separate the two in terms of having to train for FF.?

Also, CaptBob...with regards to the polygraph...I've heard horror stories about honest people failing these things. I've read several of your posts and visited polygraph.com and the antipoly website. I read up on all of the questions they ask, what they do to trip you up, and the countermeasures that can be used. Now I'm worried about having read too much and "preparing". Isn't that a question they ask you? Aren't you given a tougher poly if you answer yes or worse...automatically disqualified!?

Help!! Thanks.

p.s. I purchased your package (ultimate) recently.

[CaptBob]

FF/PM1 Wrote in this previous posting:

Yes, I was asked if I had researched polygraphs in my pre-interview, but not in the actual polygraph exam. The examiner asked me why I researched polygraphs? Was I going to manipulate it? I said of course not, but I always study before going into a test, I knew nothing about polygraphs prior to my hiring process and wanted to know what they are about.

While I am a big advocate of honesty in the hiring process, I am also an advocate on RESEARCH prior to entering into a new portion of the hiring process.

This does not make you a "cheater" or "dishonest" for wanting to know what you are getting yourself into, just thorough.

I researched every step of my hiring process. I learned everything I could about interviews, medicals, psych exams, polygraphs, backgrounds...not because I was trying to manipulate the system with deception or dishonesty, but I wanted to know what is next.

Honesty was the foundation of everything during my hiring process. I used this formula.....

If asked, a truthful answer was always given.

If asked a question, I would answer the question honestly then be quiet.

All other times I sat there with my mouth shut.

I have had friends fail polygraphs, not because they were dishonest, but they were not educated for what they were getting into. They sat down and were honest, but when answering one of the polygrpaher's questions, they would answer the question and then ADD additional info not even asked for. This ultimately led to their demise.

Learning about a polygraph does not mean I am trying to cheat it. Were you trying to cheat by going to fire stations and finding out what types of questions may be asked on the oral interview? No, you just wanted to be prepared.

Be honest, be prepared and be consistent.